Each year, high school juniors all across the state of Nebraska and nationally, take the ACT. Omaha Public Schools students took the exam on April 8.
The ACT (American College Test) is a standardized test that colleges use when applying for admission. The test is divided into six portions: english, math, reading, science, writing, and an essay. Each are timed separately. English gets 45 minutes, math gets 60 minutes, reading gets 35 minutes, science gets 35 minutes, and the essay part gets 40 minutes.
In order to prepare for the test, students take time outside of school to study. Teachers also help prepare students in class for the upcoming test.
Junior Emma Kirby felt prepared for the ACT. She took ACT prep classes every Monday for five weeks. Studying through the ACT Prep app also helped her. Going into the test, Kirby wasn’t that nervous because she knew that this was only her first official time taking it.
“I know you can always retake the test, so I wasn’t too worried. I just wanted to see where I stood,” Kirby said.
After the test, she felt pretty confident she did good and was glad to see all her preparations paid off. “For the incoming juniors of next year, I’d say obviously do your best because the test is important, but don’t stress too much. You can always try again if you’re not satisfied with your score,” Kirby said.
Junior Claire McCallan went into the test a little uneasy. To prepare, McCallan asked family and friends who have taken the test before for any tips and advice they had.
“Before taking the ACT, of course I was scared. It was nerve-racking, but it was nice to know that I had friends experiencing the same feelings as me,” Mccallan said.
After finishing the test, McCallan felt relieved that she finally got it done and doesn’t have to worry about it anymore.
“My advice to sophomores, ongoing juniors, taking the test next year is to study and take a breather. Don’t put all your energy and time into studying for it, take some time for yourself,” McCallan said.
After taking the test, some students found the test wasn’t as hard as they thought. For sophomores taking the ACT next year, one main piece of advice that students stressed is to take time for yourself. The test is important, but it’s also important to take a breather.
